1955 Austin A 55 vs. 2008 MG ZR
To start off, 2008 MG ZR is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin A 55. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin A 55 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 MG ZR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 MG ZR (159 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 MG ZR should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 MG ZR weights approximately 130 kg more than 1955 Austin A 55. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Austin A 55 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1955 Austin A 55. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 MG ZR, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 MG ZR (174 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 MG ZR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin A 55.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 55 | 2008 MG ZR | |
| Make | Austin | MG |
| Model | A 55 | ZR |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2510 mm |
